How to Conduct an Interview With a Source

Whether you plan to write features or breaking news, the ability to interview people effectively is essential to becoming a first-rate reporter.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Reporter's Notebooks
• Blank Cassette Tapes
• Cassette Tape Recorders
• Watches
• Pens

1. Prepare a list of questions, making sure you have more than you think you'll need. Consider prioritizing them.

2. Find a quiet place to talk if the interview is face to face.

3. Turn off your phone or ask not to be interrupted for the duration of the interview.

4. Set up a small tape recorder very close to the subject and ask permission to record the conversation.

5. Carefully observe and make notes about the surroundings and anything unusual about the subject's appearance or behavior.

6. Start off with small talk to loosen up the subject; most people aren't accustomed to talking to strangers.

7. Ask direct questions. If the subject starts to go off on a tangent, gently remind him or her of the question at hand.

8. Take diligent notes until the very end.

9. Pay special attention to actions or words spoken on the way out, or after the tape recorder has been turned off. The best information and quotes often come after the interview has formally ended.

10. Always speak with another person who may have a different opinion about the topic.

Tips & Warnings

• Silence often makes people talk. For tight-lipped subjects, cease your line of questioning; they may open up to ease an uncomfortable silence.

• Listen to your subject with skepticism. Subjects often have an agenda they want you to follow.

• Ask the subject for other sources or contacts after the interview ends.

• Check specific facts that could cause controversy.

• Never depend on a tape recorder. A recorder can break down or batteries can run low. Always take careful and legible notes.

• Take two pens in case one runs out or leaks.